Constitution Island, which is just north of West Point, played an important
role in the defense of the Hudson River and the Highlands on either side. Today,
Amtrak cuts access to the island making it only accessible by water.

Constitution Island

In 1775, the first American patriots occupied Martelaer’s
Rock and soon renamed it Constitution Island after the British
Constitution. In 1775, the Americans built Roman’s battery on the
island. This was the first fortification in the West Point area. By the
end of 1776, they also built Marine Battery, Hillcliff battery and Gravel
Hill Battery. In 1777, the British destroyed these positions.

In 1778 and 1779, the Americans partially rebuilt Marine
Battery, completely rebuilt Gravel Hill Battery, and constructed three
interior redoubts to protect the river batteries from attack from the
north. These fortifications added depth to the West Point defensive
zone.

In 1778, the great chain was anchored at Constitution
Island in the cove below Marine Battery.

(West Point Marker)

ENROUTE TO FISHKILL

Town of Beacon -- Watch for the George Washington statue.
Across the river is Newburgh, home of George Washington’s Headquarters during
the defense of the Highlands.

In honor of the bicentennial of the death of George
Washington, who visited the nearby Madam Brett Homestead during the
American Revolution.